Pediatric Collections: LGBTQ : Support and Care Part 1: Combatting Stigma and Discrimination

Part 1 of this first-of-its-kind 3-part series can help pediatric primary care providers can do much to combat stigma and discrimination for their LGBTQ+ patients. Signage and paperwork in clinics should reflect people of every race, disability, sexuality, and gender identity.

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LGBTQ youths report experiencing more bullying than their non-LGBTQ peers. Bullying of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youths stems from stigma, which is the social devaluation and discrediting that occurs when several processes co-occur and are reinforced by power, including labeling, stereotyping, separation, status loss, and discrimination. Part 1 of this first-of-its-kind 3-part series can help pediatric primary care providers can do much to combat stigma and discrimination for their LGBTQ patients. Signage and paperwork in clinics should reflect people of every race, disability, sexuality, and gender identity. Patients and caregivers should be screened for literacy, and educational resources should always be provided in locally relevant languages, because transgender children can be found in any ethnic and/or linguistic group. Additionally, the use of gender neutral, third person singular pronouns in publications can help to dissipate gendered assumptions. The incorporation of LGBTQ -friendly children’s books into waiting room collections and avoidance of gender-segregated toy areas can also support developing brains and encourage children’s self-expressions. As physicians empowered with LGBTQ health competency, we can break down the cycles of ignorance, shame, and toxic stress that harm children who identify as LGBTQ and improve their chances of leading happy, healthy adult lives.